Cheap Flights to Santa Ana from HK$291

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're prepared. Check out these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Santa Ana holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and something to read. Next, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any daily medications and perhaps a cosy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and pick shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to take on and off.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

The secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Santa Ana in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to have your passport and travel documents at hand. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.